Meaning of "Cinderella Undercover" by Oingo Boingo

"Cinderella Undercover" delves into the idea of growing up and losing the innocence and idealism of childhood. The references to fairy tales and cartoon characters reflect a sense of nostalgia for simpler times when trust was easy and the world seemed more magical. However, as the narrator matures, they come to understand that the world is far more complex and darker than they had initially perceived. The reference to Cinderella working for the CIA is a powerful metaphor for the loss of purity and naïveté, as well as the willingness to engage in morally ambiguous actions in the name of survival. The lyrics also touch on themes of escapism, as the narrator seeks refuge in sleep and memories to avoid facing the harsh realities of the world. Overall, the song conveys a sense of disorientation, confusion, and a yearning for a simpler, more innocent time.